The Goldfields region offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities in its many superb waterways.
Trout Fishing
There are over a thousand private and public trout lakes in the greater Ballarat area, and all produce brown and rainbow trout – some weighing in at up to six kilograms. Public lakes such as the Upper Coliban, Lauriston, Tullaroop, Cairn Curran, Malmsbury, Andersons, (Hepburn), Newlyn and Harcourt are popular choices with trout anglers. If you prefer fishing in rivers, the Campaspe River from Lake Eppalock to Axedale is also worth investigating, particularly in spring and autumn.
Private trout lakes
Private waters such as Mark Weigall’s Millbrook Lakes and Michael Cole’s Ultimate Fishing at Sherwood Grange at Moolap are just two private fisheries that provide some of the best trophy trout fishing in the state. Family groups can also experience quality trout fishing at Tuki Trout Farm in Smeaton. Download the Victorian Tourism Guide to Fishing.
Mayfly season
With a climate cooler than surrounding areas, Goldfields trout fishing is good year round (there is no closed season for trout on Victorian lakes, with the exception of lakes Wendouree and Purrembete in winter). The mayfly season starts in November and is in full swing through to April. From then the trout switch to smelting (chasing small bait fish) and over winter and early spring they also feed on chironomid (midges).
Murray cod
For Murray cod or golden perch, cast a lure or troll in the calm summer waters of Lake Eppalock, just 20 minutes from Bendigo or Heathcote. The now famous Loddon River and also Elmore Weir on the Campaspe River also provide great fishing and spectacular scenery.
Note: Due to ongoing drought conditions, it is recommended you contact the local Visitor Information Centres to confirm water levels.
Pykes Creek Reservoir, Ballan
A part of the Fishing Victoria project, this reservoir is a part of the Werribee River Basin supplying water to the Bacchus Marsh and Werribee areas. Surrounded by grazing land, clay bottom. Picnic facilities, toilets and boat ramp with excellent access.
Popular recreational boating water. Supplies irrigation water to Bacchus March and Werribee areas. Carries abundant small redfin to 350g, some to 600g, some eels and a small self-supporting brown trout population average 300g, some to 550g A popular recreational boating water.
Redfin tend to be small, but small numbers of good-sized brown trout can be taken at times. Not stocked. Popular fishing methods include fly fishing, spinning with lures or bait fishing with worms, maggots and yabbies, usually on the bottom.
